LateNightReader4742 > Status Update

We talked for a while about family and friends. Everything that I’m missing from being here for so long. Then we moved on to talking a bit about faith. Clayton took a step back and his foot caught on the edge of a loose rug. A surprised expression spread across his face as he tried to steady himself. He frantically looked for something to grab to pull himself up but he ended up grabbing my hand, accidentally pulling me onto the floor on top of him. A smile spread across his face, though the awkwardness was real because our faces were literally inches apart.
“Well,” He said softly, “I guess this is God's way of reminding us to lean on each other.” He breathed out a short laugh.
I smiled softly. “I think He’s just showing us that family means being there to catch one another.. Literally.”
He laughed quietly and gently took a hold of my hand. “Exactly. Just like in Proverbs 17:17. ‘A friend loves at all times, and a brother is born for a time of adversity.’ You’re not just my cousin, Libby. You’re my family in every sense.”
My smile grew tender. “And you’re mine. I’m so grateful for you, Clay. For your faith, your kindness, and how you always remind me of God’s love.”
He gently brushed a strand of hair from my face. “We’re blessed to have each other. And if falling like this is part of the journey, I’m glad it was with you.”
I smiled shyly as he helped me to my feet.

This heavy moment lingered between us as I rested my head against Jorden’s chest. The outside of his jacket was cold, and the temperature transferred to my cheek. I stepped back and looked up at him. He reached out to take my hand, and I immediately noticed his hands were cold. It almost felt like ice against my warm skin. I glanced down at his fingers wrapped around mine, the coldness from his hands radiating through my arm. “Your hands are so cold,” I said softly, my voice gentle, almost teasing. He looked at our conjoined hands, then back at me. A flicker of surprise crossed his face.
“Always have been. Cold, like everything else about me.” He replied quietly. His tone carried a hint of bitterness, as if the cold was more than just physical.
I smiled, squeezing his hand lightly. “Maybe you just need a little warmth.” I said, looking up into his eyes.
His lips twitched into a faint, shy smile. “Maybe.” He murmured, softer than before.
I lifted his hand to my cheek, letting the coldness brush against my skin. “I don’t mind,” I whispered. “It’s part of you, I like it.” I paused, smirking slightly. “It’s kind of adorable actually.”
He blushed slightly and glanced away with his eyes. “Adorable, huh?” He teased, his voice barely above a whisper, like he wasn’t quite sure if he should believe me.
I nodded, squeezing his hand lightly. “Yeah.. Your hands are like winter mornings—cold at first but if you hold them long enough, you feel warmth underneath.”
He swallowed hard, a soft laugh escaping him, a mixture of nervousness and something tender. “Well, then I guess you’re stuck with me.” He said quietly.
I took a step forward, resting my forehead against his hand, feeling the gentle pulse beneath his skin. “I wouldn’t have it any other way.” I whispered into his ear.

These are from 2 separate books btw :3